The man looks over at a pair of older gentlemen who seem to be enjoying their time by the water's edge. The pond begins to glisten almost magically as the sun starts to dip below the horizon. The air has a chill to it, but the remaining sunlight is more than enough to provide heat. This place is pretty tranquil, huh? He pulls a small cup shaped object from his pocket. He begins turning it over in his hand as his mind wanders. The object reads "Herbal Ride" on the top of it. I need to leave before anyone else gets hurt.

Rise had been coming down the sidewalk, scarf around her neck and hands in her jacket pocket, when she noticed the man standing near his stall. Although not feeling quite as pepped up, Rise stepped up to the stall and checked it out before looking up at the man. Hi! Coffee, right? Are you still serving? If not, think you can do just one more cup for little ol' me?

Ryoma is quickly roused from his thoughts by a woman's voice. He casually slides the object back into his pocket before greeting the girl with a warm smile and a wink. Ah! I wasn't aware they let angels down from the heavens. He offers a quick bow and stands back up. If coffee is what you'd like, then I'd be more than happy to oblige! Do you have a preferred type? Ryoma would then begin to boil some water in a kettle to the side and then looks back to the woman. I'm Ryoma by the way. Ryoma Sakamichi, the wandering barista!

Rise couldn't help but giggle at Ryoma's compliments, finding it especially entertaining when he describes what he is. How sweet of you, is that the line you use every time you want a cute girl to buy your drinks? I'm only teasing, I'll have... uh, whatever you recommend I guess. Just please add lots of sugar, okay? Rise takes her hands out of her pockets at this point and puts them behind her back, leaning forward and smiling at Ryoma. So, "wandering barista," huh? Don't have a shop of your own or something?

Inari appears! He looks thirsty for something. "Hey, Ryoma! Oh, and Rise too! What's up? serving coffee again?"

The man laughs at her response. Only the really cute ones I suppose. Worth it if only just to see a smile. And a recommendation? House blend should be up your alley! Cocoa beans are the secret. Ryoma then quickly grabs a scoop out of a small bin labeled, "Bike Blend", and throws them into a small grinder. He begins to manually turn the crank as he continues speaking. His expression becomes a lot more downcast. Well, I used to have my own place. But let's just say I had a falling out with my boss. We didn't see eye to eye anymore. He looks back to her with a grin as he empties the grounds into the percolator. So now I answer the call of adventure and travel the world! The water begins to boil faster and faster. What about you, miss? What does an angel do for work?

The man looks over to Inari with a smile. Ah! Welcome again! And not much is up at the moment. Care for a cup?

"Sure, give me something really strong."

Rise stands up straight once acknowledged by Inari, turning her head as to face him. What a pleasant surprise! Didn't think you were much of a coffee drinker Inari, let alone one who goes around looking for coffee on the go. She rolls her eyes, turning her attention back to Ryoma and following up on what he had said to her. My job isn't as free spirited as your's but boy do I wish it was sometimes! Let's just say I work in show biz. Erm... but nothing too big or noteworthy.

The kettle goes off with a ding as Ryoma reaches for a box labelled with a skull and crossbones. Sure thing pal! He pulls out a small bag of black powder and promptly places it into a second percolator. He looks back to Rise with a smile. Entertainment biz, huh? You certainly do have a certain...I don't know how to describe it. An aura, I suppose? But you're unlike the other entertainment folks I've met. You seem very humble and grounded. He lets the words hang as he proceeds to prepare the cups of coffee. Rise's cup comes to life with an acidic base and nutty and chocolate notes. They dance and play as they waft through the air, however, Inari's blend brought that to an abrupt end. From his cup came an amazingly powerful smell, as if it were simply made of gun powder or something equally foul. After a few moments, he presents the cups to the pair. Here ya go! One Bike Blend for the famous little miss! And one Black Insomnia for...Inari was it?

"Hmm... "Black Insomnia"... Yes, this is what I've been looking for! With this I can... Fuck, I'm rambling again, aren't I? Sorry... and yes, my name is Inari."

Eheh, famous? I wouldn't say that. Rise Kujikawa is a simple lady of exquisite taste is all! As well as a bit of a sweet tooth, hehe. The scent given off seemed to carry her off and away for a few moments before she sighed happily and came back to reality. Well it certainly smells good. Just what kind of magic do you brew here Ryoma-senpai? Rise takes her cup and sips from it with delight. After having experienced her coffee she'd look to Inari as if expecting his reaction to be somewhat the same.

Inari sips the coffee! ... ..... He's finished the cup in one chug! "Woah, I feel w o k e !" Inari's eyes glow a brilliant shade of yellow! He's... levitating!? "This is exactly what I've needed! Now, I can see all... Knowledge rank up!! Rank: W O K E "I HAVE ASCENDED! REEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

He looks quizzically at Inari. Eh, you're probably fine. He then dusts off his hands before bringing his arms behind his head. Well if I told you that it wouldn't be the same anymore. Being told the trick is going to be way less satisfying than figuring it out! And Ms. Kujikawa, right? I may be new here, but I'll be sure to check out your work. Surely it'd be as magical as the coffee! He flashes a grin as he proceeds to clean his work area. It's unfortunate though. I'm glad to be working again, but I never learned how to make tea. I was too focused on one half of my craft and not both.

Rise looked upon Inari with wide eyes. She didn't even know what to say about a situation like that so, at first, all she did was blink and watch. By the time he did his screech, Rise had begun cheering him on. Hahah! See? Magic! Inari-senpai you're gonna have to tell me how I can be as "W O K E" as you one day. Rise goes back to her coffee, drinking it at a steady pace instead of chugging it all down like her friend did. Once she finished she set down her cup. Aaaah, refreshing. Are you really that interested in my line of work? I mean, i-it's not like I'm making posters or anything! Hahah! Hah...

Ryoma nods at Rise's question. I am indeed. I'd always travel around and learn about the local culture. So if you are contributing to pop culture then of course I'm interested in you! He continues wiping down the stall as a wave of realization washes over him. His hands start shaking slightly as his face goes terribly flush. A-Ah! I-I....t-that is to say....I-I uh, I meant y-your career! H-Hahaha...ha... He looks away shyly. I-If you do have a posters though, I'd be more than happy to purchase one. He looks back to her with a warm smile, and red cheeks.

Being the kind of girl Rise is, it's easy to believe that she experiences this kind of treatment often but she decides to play along. I'm sure she's just trying to be nice. Gosh you're such a flirt Ryoma-senpai! Why don't you tell me how much I owe you before you start askin' me out to dinner next. Rise places her right hand into her coat pocket once again, taking out a coin purse and popping it open. I certainly hope you aren't thinking of letting me walk away with a free cup of coffee.

!! "Rise! Let me pay for that."

The man quickly looks away again. Ah...no of course not. Let me see... He glances over at a price card in an attempt to avoid eye contact for the time being. That'll be two thousand yen. Thank you for your patronage, Ms. Kujikawa! He turns to face her once more and bows deeply.

Uses his psi powers to pull his wallet out of his pocket, and pays for both of the drinks, and a tip. "Here's the payment for the drinks, and a little tip in there for ya."

Rise is by no means poor but she couldn't quite believe that such a cup of coffee could cost that much. But after such a unique taste she felt it was justified. She was about to pull out some money before Inari suddenly payed for the both of them. What the? Inari! Gosh, what is it with you boys and always jumping on the chance to pay for a girl's drink? Ah whatever, thank you I suppose, and thank you Ryoma-senpai for making such good coffee! You'll have to tell me where you plan to set up shop next so I can get some more, hehe~! Rise winks at Ryoma before stepping towards Inari and placing a hand on his shoulder. She'd smile at him, as if reassuring him that she wasn't mad or anything, then step past him and be on her way. She'd turn back once more to wave goodbye. Bye-bye now! See you both somewhere!

He raises a brow at Inari's display of power and chivalry. It isn't dead after all I suppose. Oh! Thank you for your patronage! And just follow the wind. That's where I'll be! Hehe! He smiles at the girl but the wink causes him to choke on air. His heart skipping a beat at the woman's action. I-I....you too! Bye now! Stay safe!

OOC: am I too late here, or is it still ok to join?

OOC: Go for it. I'm still awake.

OOC: cool, thanks IC: “ponds are usually a good place to relax, hopefully I can....” A young, middle-school-aged boy walks around the other side of the pond. Aside from the metallic, rabbit-ear-like accessories he has very little about him stands out. He catches sight of the group and walks around the pond, smiling at Ryoma the whole way “Do you come here often? It looks like you can move that stand, so I guess you go wherever the most customers are.”

Ryoma blinks as he looks up and down the newcomer. Rabbit....ears? Huh. He quickly shakes his head before returning the smile to the boy. Hello there! I wouldn't say I go where people are, but more like I go where the wind carries me. Either way, welcome to the Wandering Barista! The man bows deeply before standing with a flourish. The name's Ryoma Sakamichi, the wandering barista himself!

“Glad to meet you Sakamichi-san” Nanashi scrambles to bow as well, before looking back up at Roma with a smile “My name is Yoshi Nanase, but you can call me shrimp, Dust, gross, plankton, anything’s fine.” He seems awfully cheerful for someone who just listed a few insults, but he quickly glazes over that “I like the old style you have going on with the place, just like the Nomads of a few hundred years ago. How long have you been in business?”

Eito walked through the park,humming an almost recognizable song. Howevere,the moment he saw Ryoma,he stopped humming and ran over. "Ryoma!" "How are you doing pal?"

The man is visibly shocked by the willingness to be called anything but moves past that with a grin. Ryoma is fine, and I guess I'll call you Yoshi! Ryoma nods at Nanashi's words. I also like the simplicity of my stall. As for when I got into business, let's see...1990 was the year I began my travels...but this world pulled me right from 1995. So five years total?

Ryoma smiles at the familiar voice and turns to Eito. Good day Eito! I'm fine, yourself?

“You say you’re from 1995? That was quite a while ago... Let me check something.” Yoshi touches something near the base of his ears, parting his hair enough for you to see where his accessories attach, and a small screen flashes in front of him, he begins quickly moving through several different screens “Alright, let’s start by looking you up. ‘Ryoma Sakamichi’..... Looks like you don’t have an ID either.” A few more screens flash by from various newsites as Yoshi looks for info “I always heard different places were interesting, but I never thought I’d find myself 200 years ago.” The screen fades once Yoshi is done with it, so he turns his attention back to the other two present “Sorry, I’m not too familiar with the now, do you two have smartphones? I should be able to add an app to those for when we’re friends”

Smart...phone? The man laughs shyly at the question before pulling out a large device from his stall. Did you mean a cellular telephone? I have one of those. The man holds up the large brick like phone.

Eito turns to Nanashi. "Hm?Sure I do." The teen shows a smooth black phone.

Yoshi tried to hide a bit of a grimace and Ryoma’s antique device “I never thought I’d get to see one of those in-person, they don’t connect to anything so it’s hard to work with....” After a moment of thinking, Yoshi’s eyes light up “That’s it, I’ll get you one of the newest bitphone models, and then we can be friends.” Yoshi features to his metallic ears to demonstrate what one might look like “There are all sorts of styles too, some look like cat ears, others Fox, then there are the standard, business models that are hardly visible. I can get you one of those and show you how to use it.” Soon he turns back to Eito and looks at his smartphone “Mind if I install an app on it? It’s called Mutter, I made it do it would be easier to talk with my older cousin Mikado, but it’s actually gotten pretty popular. Should be easy to adapt the program to work with your phone”

The thought of wearing cat ears was certainly a funny one, but learning the technology of this era might be beneficial in his future endeavors. If that isn't too much of a hassle then it would be much appreciated, Yoshi! I'll be sure to cover any costs necessary. The business variant, if possible.

*Shrug* "Sure,why not?" Although Eito sounded indifferent,there was a tint of jealousy at Nanashi's offer to Ryoma.

The man glances back to Eito. So how've you been? Staying out of dangerous situations I hope.

Yoshi smiles widely and waves off Ryoma’s offer to cover the cost “Don’t worry about it Sakamichi-san I’d do anything for a friend, as long as it’s not life-endangering of course. I only have one of those.” Yoshi holds out his hand for Eito’s phone, and maintains a pleasant, cheerful demeanor all the while “Speaking of which, do you think there’s anything I can do for you ........ I don’t think I’ve gotten your name yet. That way we can be friends of course.”

Eito scratches the back of his head as he turns to Ryoma. "I've been doing pretty good,training a bit more,got some better weapons,stuff like that." "Anyway,so,how's business?" The teenager shuffles his feet,as his voice suddenly lowers. "What about that...Insect trouble you were having?" Eito's tone goes back to normal as quickly as it changed upon hearing Nanashi ask for his name. "Oh,where are my manners?" "My name is Eito Arai,pleased to meet you uh...I guess I don't know your name either." Eito chuckled as he handed the kid his phone.

Ryoma sighs but smiles at Yoshi. You really shouldn't be that willing. There are those who wouldn't think twice to use you. But thank you again. He'd then turn to Eito and nod. I'm glad to hear it. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't worried. And as for business, well I think I had a celebrity stop by earlier. Turning away from Yoshi and lowering his voice, he speaks to Eito once more. Nothing as of yet. It's been too quiet. But I'm ready whenever they show up.

“Pleasure to meet you Arai-san, my name is Yoshi Nanase, but you can call me dirt, trash, plankton... Anything is fine.” Yoshi straightens up and scratches the back of his head before turning back to Ryoma “I really don’t mind Sakamichi-san, as long as it makes them happy I’m glad to help.” Yoshi pulls up a small screen to check the time, and laughs lightly “Looks like I need to be going soon, but I’ll make sure to get you a bitphone for next time.” And so Yoshi waves to Eito and Ryoma as he walks off in the direction of the train station.

The man stands and bows to Yoshi. Farewell! I'll be seeing you!

OOC:I'm gonna have to do some work so i'll be gone for an hour or two.Sorry. "Well,you better be careful.Here." Eito hands Ryoma his phone number.His voice practically a whisper. "If you need any help,call me." "Regardless,as much as I like it,I didn't come here to chat with you." "Make me some coffee!Your choice,my wallet is feeling heavy today."

OOC: likewise. The man pockets the number with a silent "thank you" before standing up. Alrighty! I'll be sure to keep that in mind. Now then, coffee time! The man begins boiling some water as he reaches for Bike Blend again. He takes a scoop and adds it to the grinder before cranking the handle. After a few moments, he'd empty the grounds out into the percolator. I really hope things stay quiet. I don't want you getting too deeply involved, Eito. The kettle goes off and Ryoma grabs for it with a sigh. He dexterously pours the water over the grounds as a familiar smell greets Eito's nose. Just mere moments later and Eito is greeted by a steaming cup of coffee. Sorry it isn't Blue Mountain, I need to restock.

A girl wearing a black hoodie and worn jeans sat by the pond. She didn't hold a fishing rod, just some kind of small substance and a guitar she didn't know how to play. Atleast not well. This place wasn't noisy. It was nice. It's almost like she could hear him again... But, he's probably busy somewhere else, she thought. Maybe she should go looking again, she thought. Find... something. She threw away the object she was holding and picked up the old looking guitar, looking to leave the park before noticing a... Stand? In a place like this? How unusual. Maybe something cold wouldn't hurt for another aimless stroll. She approached the stand, raising her head slightly. Hello. Trouble you for a drink? Tea, perhaps? Or is there a secret menu?

The man smiles warmly at the newcomer. Goodness me! Another angel has graced me with her presence! He offers a playful wink before turning to his stores of tea leaves. I'd be more than happy to brew you a cup of tea, but I warn you, I'm still a novice when it comes to tea. So need be I'll waive the cost if you don't approve. So what'll it be?

Hah, angel? You're surely mistaken. Alas, the gesture is appreciated. I'll accept the necessary risk. I'll have green tea on ice.

What a peculiar way of speaking, it sounds almost familiar. And it's incredibly cute to boot! He beams at the young girl before turning on the kettle. Allow me to introduce myself while we wait. I am Ryoma Sakamichi, the wandering barista. He does a bow and stands with a flourish. And you, my dear? May I ask your name?

Familiar? I'm sure this is our first meeting. You flatter me. Senri smirks. She's never met this person before; atleast, without her mask. Wandering barista, hm? That's quite the occupation. I suppose you may be as lost in this world as I am. Though, a drifter does not compare to someone who actually makes money. It is a pleasure to meet you. I am Senri Suzuko. I'm a third year in high school, and sometimes I look for treasure. An urban pirate, maybe.

Senri? What a beautiful name. The mention of treasure was odd to him. Wait a second. Treasure, that manner of speech...she's hiding something. The man smiles warmly just as the kettle goes off. I'm impressed with your words. I wouldn't know you were in high school by what I hear. Either way, a drifter just about sums me up. He prepares a pitcher with tea leaves and fills it about half way with boiling water. So what's this treasure you chase after, Ms. Senri?

OOC:I'm back in action lads and lasses! Eito snaps out of his stupor and grabs his coffee and takes a sip. "Dear god yes..." The teen gets a smile on his face as he savors the coffee before swallowing. "This is the best fucking coffee i've had in my life!"

Well, let's just say a normal student would have graduated by now. Senri smiles with a hint of sadness behind it. His next question drew an odd expression from her. She looked off into the distance before looking at Ryoma with a serious expression. Any treasure is nice to find. But, most of all, the biggest treasure I'm looking for isn't exactly a treasure... I'm looking for someone. Someone important to me... I think, maybe if I keep chasing the wind and delve as deep as I can into this worlds secrets, maybe I'll find something that'll lead me to them. Anything...

Ryoma chuckles softly as he watches the boy drink. Why thank you, Eito! That means a lot! He then turns back to Senri as she speaks. Not normal, huh? Ryoma knew what that was like all too well. He was surprised by her sudden seriousness but he just smiled. Is it someone you love? Finding the other piece of your heart is more mystifying and wonderful than any treasure could ever try to be. The man pours some cold water and ice into the now cooling tea. He pulls out some sugar and a lemon wedge, which he proceeds to use in his preparation of the tea. Moments later and it's complete. He pours a large cup with the drink and hands it to her. Your unwavering determination is absolutely enthralling. If you're ever in need of assistance, let me know. He then takes a chance and leans in to her ear and whispers. Or is being alone your MO, Miss Samurai? He wasn't sure if it was her, but her mannerisms and speech patterns were eerily similar.

Eito nods vigorously,more coffee already in his mouth.He swallows. "Mhm.What he said.We can always help a gal." Eito then continued to drink,slightly miffed that he couldn't take big gulps or the experience would end too soon.

...Yes. It's someone I love very much. I've been a mess since they've been gone. But... I won't give up. I won't let my love be just a dream. I've messed up before, but this time, I'll be stronger. Senri's expression softened, but her eyes did not waver. As if remembering something, a memory perhaps, she smiles and bows her head as she accepts her tea. Assistance would be... She expresses surprise as Ryoma discreetly refers to her as "Samurai". She smirks, impressed by his level of observation. You're quite sharp, are you? If you're able to figure that out so quickly, you may definitely accompany me on my adventures if you desire. While I only worked alone before, someone showed me what the power of bonds can do... Likewise, if you have anything that needs taken care of, you can count on me. Or "Her", for that matter. She then looks at Eito as if sizing him up. Hmmm. If you're an acquaintance of Sakamichi-san, then you are reliable, yes?

Ryoma nods at Eito's comment before turning to Senri. I never got to thank you the other day Senri. The man grins and bows his head. I'd like to learn more about Mementos if possible. He lifts his head once more. And trust me, I'd rather not have you or anyone put in the line of fire...but I won't hesitate to call on you.

Eito smiles confidently. "Well,i'm gonna guess you're a Persona user,considering most people have them." "I don't really have anything special going on for me,sadly." "However,on the conventional side,I'd say i'm pretty good." "Then again,I guess i'd be pretty biased,so..." "What do you think,Ryoma?"

The man laughs loudly. You managed to fight off two of the more terrifying creatures that Burner has created. You're definitely no slouch!

I am indeed a Persona user. Being that alone puts you a step above the common drivel; and if Sakamichi-san regards you highly, then I look forward to seeing your strength. We must arrange a "business trip" sometime~

Eito's eyes narrow at the words 'common drivel' but go back to normal soon after. "Well,I look forward to seeing how good you,as well,Suzuko-san."

Looks like we've got quite an A Team assembled as is! The man laughs once more as he clasps his hands together. I must say. It's a far cry from what I was used to...I just ran and ran and ran...but now...I feel like I can truly fight! Suddenly a bright light begins to emanate from his pocket. Startled, he quickly pulls out the only thing in there, a small cup shaped object. What was once a simple white object had started glowing a brilliant green. No way!

Eito gets an excited look on his face as he sees the cup shaped thing. "Hey,didn't you say that you were trying to create some 'mix'?" "Maybe that's it!"

The light fades as the cup takes a green and white striped design. On the flat top it reads "Herbal Ride" in bright green letters. Eito. That is exactly what this is. I guess the Ride Blend was fine because coffee can be made with one bean... He looks to Eito and Senri with a thankful smile. Tea however requires a balance between multiple parts. A bond. How did I never realize that sooner? The power behind Herbal Ride.

Eito raises his fist to the sky in an overexaggerated motion. "The power of friendship!" "HURRAH"

Kind of cheesy but if it helps me in my fight..... He copies Eito's fist pump. Power of friendship, hurrah!

Eito bursts out in laughter. "See,this is why we're friends." "Aside from the fact you feed my addiction." "Speaking of it,how much do I owe you?"

Ryoma double checks the price before speaking. That'll be one thousand yen. And don't make it sound like I'm condoning dangerous situations! Haha!

Eito smiles wildly. "Holy shit.You are telling me that this beautiful beverage is cheaper than Blue Mountain?" Eito happily pulls out his wallet and and hands Ryoma his money. "As a friend,I want to tell you to jack up your prices.As a regular customer,I want you to keep it as is." "I am very conflicted right now."

I kinda cut it back due to the assistance you gave me, albeit unknowingly. Either way, thanks for your patronage. The man brings the change and places it into a lock box. Well, I think I'm gonna try my hand at fishing. Feel free to stick around. Ryoma would then proceed to walk over to the man in charge of the pond and rent some gear. OOC: And with that, I'm off to bed. Not sure if I'll continue this one later or make a new one tomorrow. Either way, I'm out. Thanks for coming out!

No problem bruh.I should be thanking you.You're the only one who does these threads when i'm active and you do them very frequently too.You're the best. "Hey,wait for me!" Eito would run after Ryoma,in order to join him in his fishing.